Global dimensions in the educational legislation, social studies curriculum and textbooks of Greek compulsory education (grades 1-9)

Abstract

This study involves a content analysis of Greek educational legislation as well as of the social studies curriculum and textbooks in Greece. The purpose of the study is to determine if global themes and supranational elements are contained in these materials and to what degree they translate into teachable knowledge. The analysis revealed that the above dimensions are, to some degree, evident, but they have not been adequately adapted to correspond to the pronouncements of the Greek educational establishment and to the new realities of the European and international space. The global dimensions found in these materials mainly address the geophysical aspects of the globe and to a lesser degree the human, political and socio-cultural issues and problems. It is recommended that Greece, as well as other nation states, undertake an in-depth examination of their curricula and textbooks, especially in the area of social studies, so that a balanced and globalised curriculum is developed.